How to Remove Hard Water Stains From Stainless Steel, According to Experts

Many household appliances and fixtures are made of stainless steel, from faucets and microwaves to refrigerators and ovens. Over time, these surfaces can build up with splotches left behind from hard water. While these stains typically won't disrupt the efficiency of your appliances, they can be unsightly to look at. Luckily, getting rid of hard water stains is easier than you might think. Ahead, cleaning experts share four ways to remove hard water stains from stainless steel using materials you likely already have on hand.

Why Hard Water Stains Form on Stainless Steel

Hard water stains form on stainless steel due to the water's high mineral content. "When water evaporates, it leaves behind all the minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, or other deposits that can adhere to the surface," says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. "Over time, these deposits build up and appear as white cloudy spots and streaks."

Materials Needed

Make sure you have these materials on hand when removing hard water stains from stainless steel.

• Vinegar
• Water
• Baking soda
• Club soda
• Microfiber cloths
• Spray bottle
• Small bowl

Remove Hard Water Stains on Stainless Steel Using Vinegar

Vinegar is an acidic ingredient that can effectively remove hard water stains from stainless steel.

1. In a spray bottle, prepare a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
2. Spray the solution directly onto the hard water stains and let it sit for five to 10 minutes.
3. Use a microfiber cloth or sponge to gently scrub the stains.
4. Rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.
5. Wipe the surface dry with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent new water spots from forming.

Remove Hard Water Stains on Stainless Steel Using Lemon

Don't have vinegar? No problem. You can also use lemon juice to remove hard water stains from stainless steel as its natural acidity helps dissolve the mineral deposits, says Sokolowski.

1. Cut a lemon in half.
2. Use the cut side of the lemon to rub the hard water stains and let the juice sit for five to 10 minutes.
3. Gently scrub the surface with a soft microfiber cloth.
4. Rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining lemon juice.
5. Wipe the surface dry with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent new water spots from forming.

Remove Hard Water Stains on Stainless Steel Using Baking Soda

If you need something more heavy-duty, Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly, recommends combining baking soda with vinegar and water for best results.

1. In a bowl, combine a 1/4 cup of baking soda and a 1/2 cup of water to make a paste.
2. Apply the paste to the stain.
3. Spray the stain with white vinegar.
4. Once it foams, use a microfiber cloth to scrub the paste.
5. Rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining lemon juice.
6. Wipe the surface dry with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent new water spots from forming.

Remove Hard Water Stains on Stainless Steel Using Club Soda

The carbonation from club soda will help lift the mineral deposit from the stainless steel surface, says Sokolowski.

1. Pour club soda directly onto the hard water stains.
2. Scrub the stains with a microfiber cloth.
3. Wipe the surface dry with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent new water spots from forming.

How to Prevent Hard Water Stains on Stainless Steel

To maintain stainless steel and prevent hard water stains, wipe down surfaces regularly with a soft cloth and mild detergent to prevent build-up, says Sokolowski. "Additionally, make sure to always avoid using abrasive pads or cleaners that can scratch the surface and make it more susceptible to staining." Always dry the surface after getting it wet to prevent these stains from reforming.